John Stockton on his first game against Larry bird: He said to my coach “Nobody on their team can guard me. I’m going to score 41 points and leave the game.” He scored and left in the third quarter.

**John Stockton: The Rookie Who Stunned the Boston Celtics**

John Stockton, an NBA legend and one of the greatest point guards in basketball history, had a remarkable career with the Utah Jazz. Known for his incredible passing and defensive skills, Stockton’s journey in the NBA is filled with memorable moments. One such moment came during his rookie season when the Utah Jazz faced off against the Boston Celtics.

The Celtics, led by the iconic Larry Bird, were a formidable team, and Stockton, a rookie, was about to experience an unforgettable game. As the story goes, before the game, Larry Bird, known for his confidence and trash-talking, approached his coach and made a bold declaration: “Nobody on their team can guard me. I’m going to score 41 points and leave the game.”

True to his word, Bird dominated the game from the start. Despite Stockton’s best efforts and the defensive strategies employed by the Jazz, Bird was unstoppable. He scored at will, showcasing his shooting prowess and basketball IQ. By the third quarter, Bird had racked up exactly 41 points. Satisfied with his performance and true to his earlier statement, Bird left the game, having made his point.

This legendary performance by Bird left a lasting impression on the young Stockton. It was a powerful lesson in confidence, skill, and the mental aspects of the game. Stockton would go on to use these lessons throughout his career, developing into one of the most respected and accomplished players in NBA history. Despite the humbling experience, it was encounters like this that shaped Stockton’s tenacity and drive, contributing to his illustrious career and cementing his legacy in the NBA.

Stockton’s rookie season might have been marked by moments of awe and learning, but it was also the beginning of a journey that would see him become the all-time leader in assists and steals in the NBA, a testament to his enduring impact on the game.